Chad Sugden, Newark’s most experienced professional boxer, will be making an emotional return to the ring when he walks out for what is guaranteed to be an exciting clash on the card of HOMECOMING on Friday 15 July.
The Suggy’s Gym 27-year old will be fighting in his home town for the first time as a professional boxer since making the switch in March 2016, going head to head with Portsmouth’s Joel McIntyre for the vacant English Light Heavyweight Title.
No stranger to the title, Joel defeated the much-fancied Miles Shinkwin for it in 2016 and, since turning professional in 2010, has racked up 19 wins and only four losses, while Chad’s record currently stands at 12 wins, two losses and one draw that was the result of an epic battle with Craig Richards in 2019.
Their match up takes place at Newark Showground’s Lady Eastwood Centre, where Chad’s manager, coach and father Dean Sugden himself won a World Title in 2005, knocking out his German opponent in the fourth round.
“We’re absolutely delighted to be bringing this massive fight to Newark, it’s a real match up and also a crossroads fight for both boxers as the winner would look to push on to British and European level,” said Dean.
“And of course it’s a great reward for Chad’s loyal fans who have travelled all over the country to support him in the past and now have the chance to do so right on our doorstep!
“Both Chad and I are certain this will be an absolutely classic domestic dust up and a great fight, particularly as the English Light Heavyweight title will be on the line, and with Joel being a big ticket seller just like Chad we’re definitely expecting it to be a sell-out event.
“The domestic scene at Light Heavyweight here in the UK is especially strong right now, with many of the top 10 fighting at world level, and a good win against a quality operator like Joel will project Chad back into that top 10. Joel will no doubt be thinking exactly the same but, with the other boxers coming up from behind every bit as strong as the ones in front, there are sure to be interesting times ahead for them both
“It’s been really tricky getting Chad matched but Joel has been in a similar position and credit must be given to the two of them and their camps for agreeing to do this. But it goes without saying that with that prestigious title on the line there is so much more at stake here than just bragging rights.”
“My dad’s been working on this one for some time so it’s really good to get it finally over the line and even better to be doing it right here in Newark,” said Chad.
“I’m more than ready to put my skills to the test against Joel, a very game and quality operator who has some good wins on his record including that one against Miles Shinkwin back in 2016 so he has to be respected.
“But make no mistake, come Friday 15 July I will be in the best shape ever and I’m planning to put on a show for the whole of Newark. I am buzzing and will adapt in there to make sure I win that English title.”
“After winning the English title last time, I lost it on my first defence but my idea is to win it back and then move on from there,” said Joel.
“I’m more experienced now, I’ve still got a lot to give and have looked after myself. I know this is my last chance but I also know what intensity I have to train at and the amount of professionalism necessary to succeed at this level.
“Respect to Chad but I haven’t come back just to take part – my goal is to put myself in a position to move on to British and Commonwealth titles. This fight in Newark will allow me to do that – I know it’s going to be a good one and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Promoted jointly by Dean and Boxing Connected’s Scott Calow, the show will feature what they both describe as an exciting undercard packed with talent, including a couple of professional debuts.
“We’ll be announcing full details in the next few days but I promise it will be one of the best undercards, with Nottingham’s Joe Hughes and Ryan Amos already on the list alongside one other local fan favourite,” added Dean.
“As soon as the paperwork is in place we’ll be making that announcement – I can’t say any more more right now but watch this space to find out what else is in store.
“Tickets for the show will be on sale from next week, priced £750 for a table of 10 including food and £650 tables of 10, with all tables having waitress service and access to a separate VIP bar.
“Unreserved seating will be available at £40 and we will be providing optional hot and cold food, along with two fully licensed bars.
“This is definitely going to be a night to remember and anyone wanting to secure a table or reserve or purchase tickets needs to speak to Chad or myself or call Karen on the ticket hotline 07816 840920 as soon as possible. Tickets will also be on sale at Suggy’s Gym, 49 Castlegate, Newark.”
Pictures of Chad by Rick Wilks / Primal Pixels and Mark Robinson / Matchroom Boxing – Event poster by Braincup Media
SUGGY'S GYM 
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